CodyPilot

In one month I will begin my training at either SkyWest or Mesa. I wish to hold IAH as soon as possible, and I can as an FO with either one.

My goal is to upgrade ASAP to get my 1,000 PIC. I know with SkyWest I will be doing some commuting as a CA, but that's okay with me.

At Mesa I will not, which is desirable, however I am worried that Mesa's reputation throughout the industry might hurt my chances of getting in with the majors. I know Mesa guys do go on the majors, but it doesn't seem like they do as often. I don't want to feel as if I will not get selected vs another candidate just because I work for Mesa.

Any insight/inputs on this?

StrykerB21

I cant imagine any HR department thinking less of a pilot because they fly for Mesa. I wouldn't worry about it.

Rahlifer

As long as you can check all the correct boxes on the app, no one cares where you get your 121 pic time. MESA might actually be a quicker upgrade. I have a few friends there and they all mention how crazy the attrition is, which translates into movement on the seniority list.

greendotplus10

You might change your mind about that thought once you start commuting...

For some, living in base and having no commute is the only way to do this job. On the other hand there are guys that commute and don't complain too much. Your opinion will vary, but I'd recommend the first option.

As an FO you could get to IAH pretty easily at both Skywest and Mesa. But, what you should really be focusing on is what life will be like after upgrade. IAH isn't the most junior captain base at Skywest, you'd (currently) need 3 years of seniority to hold captain in IAH (check out the seniority table on Skywest website). So that would mean a year or so of deferred upgrade or commuting to a junior base (DTW, MSP, ORD). The latter does not sound like fun.

At Mesa it's easy because IAH is the only E-jet base. It would be guaranteed out of training, and (currently) is guaranteed for upgrade.

Of course, these are both regional airlines, so the status of IAH at each is subject to change. But, your chances of success will be higher the faster you can get in and get your flight time.